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Having healthy teeth and gums is important for a number of reasons. Beyond the aesthetic benefits of a bright smile, strong teeth are necessary for proper chewing and digestion of food. Additionally, gum disease has been linked to a variety of serious health conditions. There are many simple practices that one can incorporate into their daily routine to keep their teeth and gums healthy throughout life. n this article, let’s look at some of the best practices that dentists recommend for maintaining healthy teeth.
Brush Twice A Day
Brushing your teeth twice a day is one of the most important practices for maintaining good oral hygiene. You should brush once in the morning after breakfast and again before going to bed. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Take your time, brushing all surfaces of your teeth – front, back, top, bottom. Brush for at least two minutes each time to remove plaque and bacteria that can cause cavities, gum disease, and bad breath.
Floss Daily
Flossing once a day helps remove plaque and food particles from between your teeth that your toothbrush can’t reach. After brushing, use about 18 inches of dental floss. Wrap the floss around the fingers on each hand and slide it gently up and down between each tooth. Curve the floss around the base of each tooth to clean beneath the gumline. Take your time and don’t snap or force the floss, which can injure gums. Flossing takes practice, but it’s worth it to prevent gum disease.
Use Antimicrobial Rinses
Mouthwashes and oral rinses that contain antimicrobial ingredients like cetylpyridinium chloride or essential oils can also help kill bacteria that cause plaque buildup, gingivitis, and bad breath. Use as directed after brushing and flossing. Swish the rinse around for 30-60 seconds to reach areas you may have missed. Rinsing is not a substitute for brushing and flossing, but it gives your oral care an added boost.
Drink Plenty Of Water
Staying hydrated with water is key for saliva production, which helps neutralize acids and wash away food particles in your mouth. Aim for 6-8 glasses of water per day. Avoid sugary juices and sodas which can damage tooth enamel. Drinking water after eating helps cleanse the mouth. if you have a dry mouth, carry water with you to sip throughout the day. Proper hydration supports overall health including your oral health.
Limit Sugary Foods And Drinks
Eating too many sugary foods and beverages can feed the bacteria in your mouth that produce acids, weakening enamel and promoting tooth decay. Soda, candy, baked goods, and sugary cereals are common culprits. Limit your intake of sweets and opt for healthy snacks like fruit, vegetables, yogurt, and nuts. Be sure to rinse with water after consuming sugary foods. When you do indulge in sweets, do so with meals rather than between them.
Use Proper Brushing Technique
How you brush your teeth is just as important as how often. Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle where your gums and teeth meet. Gently brush back and forth using short strokes. Move the brush along all surfaces – outsides, insides, tops of teeth, and along the gum line. Avoid scrubbing too hard which can damage enamel and irritate gums. Take your time and make sure you are thoroughly cleaning each section of the mouth. The proper technique helps optimize your brushing.
Get Dental Cleanings And Check-Ups
Regular dental exams and professional cleanings are essential for healthy teeth. Most dentists recommend check-ups twice per year to monitor your oral health. A dental hygienist like Dr. James Lee will clean plaque buildup above and below the gum line and spot any signs of decay or other issues. Getting your teeth professionally cleaned helps boost your own oral care routine between visits. Monitoring cavities when they are small prevents larger issues and may reduce the need for fillings or other dental work later on.
Use Fluoride Toothpaste
Choose a toothpaste approved by the American Dental Association that contains fluoride. Fluoride makes the tooth enamel more resistant to decay and acids that can erode it. Using fluoride toothpaste for your regular brushing provides ongoing protection between dental visits. Adults who are at moderate risk for cavities may benefit from prescription-strength fluoride toothpaste or monthly fluoride rinses for additional preventive benefits. Check with your dentist about your specific fluoride needs.
Quit Smoking And Chewing Tobacco
Smoking and chewing tobacco negatively impact dental health and overall health. Tobacco can stain teeth, cause tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancer. The chemicals restrict saliva flow, allowing more bacteria growth. Smoking impairs healing after dental procedures. Quitting tobacco use improves the health of your teeth and gums. Your dentist can provide tips and information on quitting smoking or chewing tobacco for better oral well-being.
Protect Your Teeth From Injury
Preventing injury to your mouth and teeth while playing sports or other activities can help you avoid expensive dental bills. Use a mouthguard when playing sports that carry a risk of hits or falls. Wear a mouthguard at night if you grind your teeth. Avoid chewing on pens, nails, or hard foods like ice which can crack teeth. Taking care to shield your face in risky situations prevents dental trauma. Address dental injuries promptly before they become more complicated issues. Protecting your teeth from harm is part of keeping your smile healthy.
